Ferrari 296 GTS

Highlights

• 0–100 km/h in under 4 seconds
• Hand-built engine
• Lowest depreciation in class

Summary

This specific Ferrari 296 GTS represents a rare opportunity to own a nearly-new example of the most advanced open-top hybrid supercar currently available. With remarkably low mileage for a 2023 model in the UAE market, this vehicle has barely transitioned past its break-in period, offering a pristine alternative to a showroom-fresh order without the lengthy waiting lists typically associated with Maranello's V6 hybrid flagship. The black-on-black configuration is a high-demand choice in the GCC region, known for maintaining superior resale value and timeless appeal among local collectors. By combining the soul of a high-revving internal combustion engine with a potent electric motor, this model delivers a versatile driving experience that transitions seamlessly from silent city cruising in Dubai to high-performance weekend runs on the Jebel Jais mountain roads. While this is a European spec car, the sheer performance and collectibility of the GTS trim ensure it remains one of the most liquid assets in the regional luxury automotive market. For the discerning buyer, this listing offers the perfect balance of immediate availability and long-term value retention in the high-end supercar segment.

This Car vs Other 2023 296s

When evaluating this specific vehicle against other 2023 models in the market, the primary advantage is its exceptionally low mileage. In a region where many performance cars are used for frequent high-speed commutes between Emirates, finding a unit with only 4000 km ensures that the mechanical components, particularly the complex hybrid battery system and the retractable hardtop mechanism, are in peak condition. The black exterior is highly favored in the GCC secondary market, as it bypasses the more common red variants and offers a stealthier, more sophisticated aesthetic that appeals to serious investors. While many 2023 models have already seen significant track use or high-temperature cycles, this low-mileage example presents as a collector-grade vehicle. Choosing a 2023 model also means you benefit from the latest software updates for the sophisticated Side Slip Control and brake-by-wire systems which were refined in the second year of production. This car stands out as a well-preserved specimen that bridges the gap between a brand-new delivery and a typical used listing.

GTS vs Lower Trims

Moving up to the GTS trim over the standard GTB coupe introduces a transformative dimension to the driving experience that is highly valued in the UAE's coastal areas. The defining feature is the Retractable Hard Top (RHT) which can be operated in just 14 seconds at speeds of up to 45 km/h, allowing drivers to transition from a refined coupe to an open-air supercar instantly. Beyond the roof, the GTS features a redesigned rear deck and flying buttresses that manage airflow more effectively than the base coupe, ensuring that high-speed stability is never compromised. The cabin experience in the GTS is also enhanced by an adjustable rear glass screen that allows the driver to modulate the engine's soundtrack even when the roof is closed, a feature not available on lower-spec fixed-roof models. In the GCC market, the GTS variant consistently commands a higher premium and experiences slower depreciation than the GTB, as open-top Ferraris are historically more sought after by regional collectors. This trim also includes specific chassis reinforcements to maintain the legendary handling precision that Ferrari is known for, ensuring no performance loss despite the convertible configuration.

296 vs Segment Rivals

The 296 GTS competes in a rarefied space against rivals like the McLaren Artura Spider and the Lamborghini Huracán Tecnica, but it leads the pack in several critical areas. While its competitors rely on larger V8 or V10 engines, the Ferrari’s innovative V6 hybrid powertrain produces a staggering 829 hp, comfortably outperforming its peers in both raw power and technological sophistication. This model also offers a dedicated eDrive mode, allowing for silent, electric-only operation for up to 25 km, which is a major advantage for navigating residential communities in the early morning without disturbing neighbors—a level of versatility the Lamborghini cannot match. The Ferrari’s compact dimensions and short wheelbase make it more agile on technical roads compared to the larger McLaren, while the interior technology and digital interface feel a generation ahead of most current rivals. Furthermore, the Ferrari brand's prestige and the established service infrastructure in major GCC cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Riyadh provide a level of ownership security and prestige that newer boutique manufacturers often struggle to replicate.

Running Costs & Resale

As a modern hybrid supercar, the 296 GTS offers surprisingly manageable running costs when compared to traditional V12 models, though it remains a high-performance machine that requires specialized care. The 3.0L V6 hybrid system is remarkably efficient during highway cruising, but buyers should note that performance driving in the GCC heat will naturally increase fuel consumption and require strictly 98-octane petrol. Ferrari’s official service centers in the UAE and across the GCC are world-class, typically offering service intervals once a year or every 20,000 km, though for a car of this caliber, more frequent oil changes are recommended given the local climate. This vehicle is a European spec, which is common in the UAE market, though buyers should verify the remaining global warranty or local service contract eligibility at an authorized dealer. Historically, limited-production open-top Ferraris like the GTS hold their value exceptionally well in the region, often seeing a depreciation rate of only 10-12% annually compared to the 18% seen in other luxury segments. At the 3-year mark, a 296 GTS is expected to retain a significant portion of its original value, making it a sounder financial decision than many of its more mass-produced competitors.

Performance & Capability

The performance of the 296 GTS is nothing short of breathtaking, defined by a 0–100 km/h sprint time of just 2.9 seconds and a top speed exceeding 330 km/h. This incredible acceleration is made possible by the 120-degree V6 engine paired with a rear-mounted electric motor, which provides instant torque and eliminates turbo lag entirely. On the wide, well-paved highways of the Emirates, the car feels exceptionally stable, thanks to active aerodynamics like the LaFerrari-inspired active rear spoiler that generates up to 360 kg of downforce. The 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is incredibly fast, offering shifts that are both violent in performance modes and smooth during relaxed drives. Despite being a rear-wheel-drive car, the sophisticated eSSC (electronic Side Slip Control) and the transition between electric and hydraulic braking feel natural, providing immense confidence on high-speed sweeps. For the GCC owner, this means a car that is just as capable of setting lap records at the Dubai Autodrome as it is being a comfortable, high-speed grand tourer for cross-border trips to Oman or Saudi Arabia.

Comfort & Cabin

Inside the 296 GTS, you are greeted by a driver-centric cockpit that blends minimalist racing aesthetics with high-end Italian luxury. The seating for two is highly supportive, featuring carbon-fiber shells and premium upholstery that remains comfortable even during long drives between cities. A standout feature for the GCC climate is the high-output air conditioning system, which has been engineered to maintain cabin temperatures even when the roof is down during the warmer months. The digital interface is entirely screen-based, with a large driver display and an optional passenger display that shows performance data, allowing your co-pilot to share in the excitement. Cabin insulation is excellent for a convertible; with the roof up, the noise levels are nearly identical to the coupe version, making it a viable daily driver. The use of premium materials like Alcantara and brushed aluminum throughout the interior ensures that the car feels every bit like a luxury product, providing a serene environment for the commute or an exhilarating one for the weekend.

Safety

Safety in the 296 GTS is handled by an array of cutting-edge electronic systems designed to manage its immense power safely on public roads. The car features advanced ABS-EVO which utilizes data from the 6-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor to reduce braking distances and improve stability under heavy deceleration, a crucial feature for high-speed highway environments. Standard safety tech includes multiple airbags, high-performance Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, and a sophisticated traction control system that can be adjusted via the Manettino dial on the steering wheel to suit road conditions. For the GCC driver, the blind-spot monitoring and high-resolution rearview camera are invaluable tools for navigating the heavy traffic and multi-lane highways of major cities. The structural integrity of the GTS has been specifically reinforced to provide maximum protection in the event of an impact, ensuring that the open-top design does not compromise passenger safety. These systems work together seamlessly to provide a safety net that is unobtrusive during spirited driving but highly effective when needed.

The bottom line

This 2023 Ferrari 296 GTS is the ideal choice for a collector or enthusiast looking for the absolute latest in hybrid performance with the added allure of open-top driving. Given its low mileage and popular color specification, this listing represents a highly liquid and prestigious entry into the modern Ferrari era.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.